How to Run an Ajo With Family and Friends Abroad

Ajo, esusu, a contribution circle: whatever you call it, it's one of the oldest ways Nigerians save together. A group agrees on an amount, everyone contributes every week or month, and each round one person collects the whole pot. It works just as well when some members are in Lagos, some in London and some in Houston. It just needs clear rules and good records.

Why ajo works across borders

A circle gives everyone a lump sum they'd struggle to save alone, without interest or bank fees. For families and friends spread across countries it's also a way of staying connected and helping each other reach big goals, like rent, school fees, a business or a trip home.

Agree the rules before the first round

Most ajo problems come from things nobody said out loud at the start. Agree these together:

• The amount, and the currency everyone pays in
• How often, weekly or monthly, and the due date
• The order of collection, and how it's decided
• What happens if someone pays late or needs to leave
• Who keeps the records

Pick one currency for the circle

If members are in different countries, choose one currency for the circle and stick to it. Mixing pounds, dollars and naira in the same pot causes arguments when rates move. Members who earn in another currency convert on their side before paying.

Keep records everyone can trust

The organiser should track every round: who has paid, who hasn't, and whose turn it is to collect. Share it with the group so nobody has to ask. Clear records protect the organiser as much as the members.

Keep the money moving directly

The simplest setups have members pay the collector for that round directly, rather than one person holding everyone's money. It's less risk for everyone, and nobody has to be the bank.

Plan for late payments

Someone will eventually be late. Agree a small grace period and a friendly reminder routine. A circle that handles one late payment calmly will last for years.

How Gripd helps

Gripd has ajo circles built in, free on every plan. Set the amount, how often and how many members, invite people with a link, and Gripd tracks who has paid each round and whose turn it is to collect, with reminders before payments are due. Gripd never holds the money: members pay each other directly, and Gripd keeps the records everyone can see.

Start free and set up your circle in a few minutes.